News

Rep. Lloyd Smucker and Jess King face off in 11th district debate

Democrat Jess King and GOP Congressman Lloyd Smucker debate at Millersville University October 8, 2018.

(Lancaster) -- The candidates for the 11th congressional district faced off in their first debate Monday night at Millersville University.

Freshman Republican Congressman Lloyd Smucker is being challenged by Democrat Jess King in a district, which covers Lancaster and southern York counties.

Smucker said he believes in small government and touted background as a small businessman. He cited Republican's recent tax overhaul as one of the reasons the country's robust economic growth.

"I believe in more dollars in people's pockets to spend in the way they want," Smucker said. "It's the private sector that creates jobs, not the government."

The former state senator criticized King for promoting what he called a radical, socialist agenda, which includes single-payer healthcare, and for taking a salary from her campaign.

King, who previously headed ASSETS, a nonprofit supporting small businesses, said that unlike most members of Congress, she is not wealthy. She believes everyday people should be able to run for office.

She said despite the nation's low unemployment rate, wages are not keeping up with the costs of healthcare, housing and childcare.

"Economic mobility is at an all time low in this country," said King. "I think good, smart government is about investing in that and making sure this country works for all of us."

On many issues, from guns, to healthcare, and climate change, King said big money is having a corrosive influence on the nation's democratic system, and said she supports reforming campaign finance laws.

Stay Connected

A partner of

The official registration and financial information of WITF may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll free, within Pennsylvania, (800) 732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.